I have an self harm scar that still hasn't completely healed, gone away, or improved. What can I do? (Photo)

Question

This was a one time occurance, so I've never dealt with a scar like this before. It's been a full year and it still itches and hurts sometimes. It's raised, and goes from light pink to a full red color sometimes. I tried a baking soda and vitamin E oil mix that someone online recommended for self harm scars, it didn't help at all. I also tried just vitamin E oil, as well as a scar cream for the full period it said to. The scar hasn't even improved in appearance. What can I do?

Raffy Karamanoukian, MD, FACS · Answer

Plato's Scar Serum, vascular lasers, and Kenalog injections can help smooth your scars and improve their appearance. Best, Dr. KaramanoukianLos Angeles

J. Jason Wendel, MD, FACS · Answer

Thank you for your question in regards to scar removal. Using a scar cream such as Silagen can help the improvement of even older scars. Lasers can help with the redness in the scar while resurfacing and/or microneedling treatments can help improve the appearance of the scar itself. To be sure what is best for you, see two or more board-certified providers in your area for a complete evaluation to make sure you are a good candidate and that it is safe for you to have treatment. I hope this helps.

Jason Emer, MD · Answer

You can try lasers but i often find that medical tattooing is the best option.  Please see an expert for treatment.  Best, Dr. Emer.

Lisa Vuich, MD · Answer

These are called keloid scars. Best to have them treated by a plastic surgeon. Excision is sometimes needed. Kenalog injections can help ( steroid injection). Nothing topical will make a difference.Best,Lisa Vuich, MD

I have an self harm scar that still hasn't completely healed, gone away, or improved. What can I do? (Photo)

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